Suzuki Marine’s 2009 dealer meeting and media event, held on Lake Rosseau in the Muskoka region in central Ontario, offered a large selection of engine models to review, including the Suzuki DF150 that was matched with a Doral 190 Bowrider.

The DF150 along with the DF175 are based on an all-new inline four-cylinder Dual Overhead Cam power head with a 2867 cc displacement, which according to the manufacturer is the largest to date in the four-stroke, four-cylinder category. Added displacement doesn't necessarily mean a larger and heavier engine.  In fact, Suzuki's engineers have targeted these big block motors to be the lightest four-strokes in their class.

Suzuki's offset drive shaft has proven beneficial in reducing the size of several models, including the DF150. For added compactness, the crankshaft is positioned ahead of the drive shaft, which also moves the outboard's centre of gravity further forward.  Additionally, Suzuki also claims this system also places the engine's axis of inertia, the point where vibration produced by the engine are minimal, up over the upper engine mount, thus greatly reducing vibration.
 
During the sea trial, the DF150 performed flawlessly.  Acceleration was solid and the 190 shot up on plane in 2.3 seconds. The hull cruised along comfortably at 21.6 mph at 3,000 rpm, however after pushing the throttle forward, cruising was as equally as comfortable at 36.1 mph at 4,000 rpm.  Most notable was the relatively quiet operation of the engine at this speed. Sound levels at the helm were also a very reasonable 84 dbA. Most of the noise level can be attributed to the hull passing through the water.

The 18-degree deadrise allowed the hull to handle the limited chop with relative ease, while the hull felt secure and tracked well during a series of high speed turns. At wide open throttle, we hit a top speed of 53.8 mph at 5,500 rpm.  A bit of a chine walk developed toward the top end of the speed scale and some finesse was required on the trim. Pulling the throttle back, I was able to keep the hull on plane while running along at 14.2 mph at 2,700 rpm.

The Doral 190 is a sleek bowrider with a contemporary design, offering plenty of room throughout the cockpit and in the bow.  Cockpit seating consists of a bench seat aft with a pair of bucket seats for the forward passenger and driver.  The passenger to port has access to a large glove compartment, which also housed a stereo, a recessed beverage holder, and a beefy hand hold.  The helm is well organized in a simple, yet effective manner.  A set of five analogue gauges adorn the upper section of the dash and a small series of rocker switches were located to the right of the steering wheel.

Up forward, there was a spacious U-shaped bench with ample back rest padding throughout.  You'll also find the added conveniences such as a set of hand holds up at the bow.

Ample storage was found throughout, including under the seats both fore and aft with a large locker in the centre of the cockpit offering plenty of storage for skis and other water toys.  Also found in this compartment are storage snaps for the removable navigation light.  Noticeably absent however was a gas assist strut for the hatch cover itself.

The Doral 190 is a stylish bowrider that will be popular with new and seasoned boaters.  When paired with the Suzuki DF150 and the snappy performance that it has to offer, this package will be sure to keep you and your guests thoroughly entertained on the water all day long.

- Mike Burns
 
2009 Doral 190 Bowrider

Length:                             18' 6"
Beam:                                7' 3"
Weight:                              2,350 lbs.
Fuel Capacity:                   23 gal.
Power (as reviewed):         Suzuki DF150 I-4 Outboard